Typically, I'm over undead films. While favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, the genre seems mostly depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. However, the platform's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Superb Pacing and Character Growth
One of the film's strongest strengths is its superb rhythm. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family party gets suddenly disrupted when a van crashes right into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual emerges proceeding attacking the partygoers. This dramatic moment is then followed by a look back, giving viewers to see the family before the tragedy struck.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly allows the audience enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters prior to the carnage begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex best friend, Karina, has become married to Nes' father—a clearly awkward situation. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out between Nes and Karina. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured yet socially awkward, and he loves playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to her. The family head is her dad, the owner of a popular natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and who appears focused on just two aspects: his business and his marriage to his daughter's ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is extremely strained.
Engaged in the Conflict
I found myself so engrossed in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly forgot this was a scary movie—something that could sound like a negative, but ultimately paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of its runtime depicting viewers the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they add to the general turmoil. This emphasis on conflicting personalities enabled the audience to relate to the personalities sufficiently to care about their outcome—a rare feat for this style which frequently presents individuals just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of zombies to consume, thus it's a real surprise when things eventually go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and various family interactions in fact evoke the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring slightly dark humor prior to making an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" territory. These early moments don't focus as much on humor compared to Parasite, but The Elixir still provides enough opportunity to immerse in its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Origin
The film additionally presents a fairly interesting explanation for the source of the contagious transformation. Instead of an accidental lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the source of this contagious disease originates in a recent sample of Wani Waras natural medicines created by her dad. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the movie devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of natural treatments to producing a lethal potion which seems to include a highly contagious virus. Regardless of the limited context, the impact this affliction produces on humans is utterly disgusting, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a bold choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear very convincing, and are almost certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Capable Personalities
More impressive compared to the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see some instances of dubious decision-making (like any any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her relatives show themselves inventive and sharp. They also don't hesitate to strike an undead in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument is available instead of standing still like a deer caught in lights as death nears.
Believable Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord once individuals start turning to the undead, this proved a pleasantly realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still holding onto resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family gets separated, they agree via telephone to meet up at a close location. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—feel realistic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to push the notion that a near-death experience immediately resolves family tensions. This makes those instances when these characters do show gratitude for each other seem much more sincere.
Predictable Ending
In spite of The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound insight about family or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily serving up scares. Yet these are successful frights, and because the movie allows every personality enough room to develop and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the outcome is an engaging and enjoyable
